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WO2007109900A1 - Capteur solaire - Google Patents

Capteur solaire Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007109900A1
WO2007109900A1 PCT/CA2007/000505 CA2007000505W WO2007109900A1 WO 2007109900 A1 WO2007109900 A1 WO 2007109900A1 CA 2007000505 W CA2007000505 W CA 2007000505W WO 2007109900 A1 WO2007109900 A1 WO 2007109900A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
absorber
solar collector
panel
reflector
solar
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/CA2007/000505
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
David Gerwing
Steven Tennant
Leonard Winn
Terry Graham
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
MENOVA ENERGY Inc
Original Assignee
MENOVA ENERGY Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by MENOVA ENERGY Inc filed Critical MENOVA ENERGY Inc
Publication of WO2007109900A1 publication Critical patent/WO2007109900A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
    • H02S40/40—Thermal components
    • H02S40/44—Means to utilise heat energy, e.g. hybrid systems producing warm water and electricity at the same time
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S10/00—Solar heat collectors using working fluids
    • F24S10/70—Solar heat collectors using working fluids the working fluids being conveyed through tubular absorbing conduits
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
    • F24S23/70—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
    • F24S23/74—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors with trough-shaped or cylindro-parabolic reflective surfaces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S30/40—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement
    • F24S30/42—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with only one rotation axis
    • F24S30/425—Horizontal axis
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S30/40—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement
    • F24S30/45—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes
    • F24S30/452—Vertical primary axis
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S40/00—Safety or protection arrangements of solar heat collectors; Preventing malfunction of solar heat collectors
    • F24S40/80—Accommodating differential expansion of solar collector elements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10F—INORGANIC SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES SENSITIVE TO INFRARED RADIATION, LIGHT, ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OF SHORTER WAVELENGTH OR CORPUSCULAR RADIATION
    • H10F77/00—Constructional details of devices covered by this subclass
    • H10F77/40—Optical elements or arrangements
    • H10F77/42—Optical elements or arrangements directly associated or integrated with photovoltaic cells, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
    • H10F77/488—Reflecting light-concentrating means, e.g. parabolic mirrors or concentrators using total internal reflection
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2025/80—Special profiles
    • F24S2025/806—Special profiles having curved portions
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2030/10—Special components
    • F24S2030/13—Transmissions
    • F24S2030/131—Transmissions in the form of articulated bars
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2030/10—Special components
    • F24S2030/13—Transmissions
    • F24S2030/134—Transmissions in the form of gearings or rack-and-pinion transmissions
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2030/10—Special components
    • F24S2030/14—Movement guiding means
    • F24S2030/145—Tracks
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
    • Y02E10/44—Heat exchange systems
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
    • Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
    • Y02E10/52—PV systems with concentrators
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/60—Thermal-PV hybrids

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to solar collectors, and in particular to concentrating solar collectors.
  • Concentrating solar collectors typically comprise a reflector for reflecting and concentrating received solar radiation towards an absorber.
  • the absorber may include a conduit for carrying a heat transfer fluid for absorbing solar thermal energy and/or an array of photovoltaic cells for converting solar energy into electrical energy.
  • the reflector is either in the form of a circular dish with the focal position above the center of the dish, or a trough-like, parabolic reflector which produces a line focus along the length of the reflector. in the latter case, the absorber typically comprises a radiation absorbing tube positioned centrally above the reflector and extending along its length.
  • Non-focusing solar collectors typically require some type of sun tracking mechanism and tracking control system to vary the orientation of the collector to maintain the focal position of the solar radiation of the absorber surface.
  • Non-focusing solar collectors generally comprise flat, solar absorbing panels which are fixed in position and do not actively track the sun.
  • the solar collector comprises a parabolic trough-like reflector having a longitudinal absorber positioned above the reflector ar,d mounted thereon by means of a central support upstanding from the reflector.
  • the reflector includes spaced apart ribs fixed to the underside of the reflector panel to help maintain the shape of the reflective surface.
  • the absorber comprises a longitudinal plate having a radiation absorbing surface which may include an array of solar cells mounted thereon.
  • a conduit is positioned adjacent the back of the plate for transferring solar thermal energy into a heat transfer fluid.
  • Transparent panels extend from each side of the absorber to opposed longitudinal edges of the reflector to protect the reflective surface from weathering and to provide additional structural rigidity.
  • a solar collector comprising a trough- like reflector having opposed front and rear longitudinal tdges, each defining an air to solid interface, and an absorber for receiving solar radiation from the reflector, the absorber being disposed at a position that is offset towards one of the front and rear edges from a central position between the edges .
  • the absorber is offset towarda one of the longitudinal edges of the reflector, and the reflective surface has a profile which concentrates the solar radiation towards the absorber.
  • This asymmetric arrangement allows ⁇ hadowing of the reflective surface by the absorber to be avoided so that the whole reflector surface between opposed edges thereof can be used to reflect solar radiation towards the absorber.
  • the asymmetric profile of the reflector which may, for example, comprise a portion of a parabolic curve can be flatter than a traditional symmetric parabolic trough-like reflector, thereby reducing the tendency and propensity of the collector co collect and hold elements such as water, .mow and ice on the surface of the reflector.
  • this asymmetric arrangement allows one of the edges of the reflector to be ac the lowest point of the reflective surface when the reflector is positioned to receive solar radiation directly overhead, again so that moisture and other elements can readily run off the reflective surface.
  • this asymmetric arrangement may reduce the tilt angle required to remove moisture from the reflective surface .
  • the absorber is mounted to the reflector by means of a support which is connected adjacent an edge of the reflector. This arrangement also assists in preventing the support producing a shadow or interfering with the path of solar radiation between t:h,; reflector surface and the absorber.
  • the profile of the reflective surface of the reflector is asymmetric between ⁇ he opposed front and rear edges to concentrate substantially all of the direct solar radiation towards the absorber.
  • the reflector comprises opposed -spaced apart first and second panels, with the first panel supporting the reflective surface, and the second panel being positioned below the first panel.
  • the panels are spaced apart by front and rear edge portions.
  • one or more rib members in provided for at least partially defining the profile of the reflector surface.
  • one or more rib members are provided between spaced apart panels of the reflector.
  • the reflector comprises a monocoque structure.
  • the collector comprises one or more arms extending from a position adjacent at least one of a front and rear edge of the reflector for supporting the absorber. ⁇ n some embodiments, an inner edge of the or each arm curves outwardly away from the edge of the reflector adjacent which the arm is attached.
  • the absorber comprises an absorbing surface for absorbing solar radiation, the absorbing surface having a width transverse to the longitudinal direction of the reflector, and a solar energy to electrical energy conversion device having a width in a direction trnasverse to the longitudinal direction of the reflector, the solar energy to electrical energy conversion device being disposed on the absorbing surface, wherein the width of the device is less than that of the absorbing surface.
  • the width of the absorber is equal to or greater than the maximum spread of solar radiation at the absorber surface, so that the absorber is able to receive all of the concentrated solar radiation as the spread varies with the position of the sun.
  • the absorber includes means defining an aperture for admitting solar radiation onto the absorbing surface, the aperture having a width transverse to the longitudinal direction of the absorber which is less than the width of the absorbing surface.
  • the reflector may be adapted to concentrate the solar radiation towards a focal position which is spaced from and is in front of the absorber surface. This arrangement assists in distributing the solar radiation across the width of the absorber, while allowing the radiation to pass through the aperture. rhe focal position, i.e., the most narrow portion of the concentrated radiation may be positioned near the aperture. Reflector (s) may be provided between the aperture and the absorber to reflect radiation that may be reflected or emitted from the absorber, back to the absorber.
  • the absorber comprises a plurality of conduits for carrying fluid for absorbing heat from the absorber and wherein the conduits are positioned in side-by-side relationship across the width of the absorber for absorbing thermal energy across the width of the absorber. This arrangement helps to provide a more uniform temperature distribution across the absorber.
  • thermal insulation is provided to thermally insulate the conduits.
  • two adjacent support arms form an enclosure for enclosing at least one of electrical cables and/or connectors and/or fluid carrying conduits to/from the absorber.
  • a solar collector comprising a reflector assembly for supporting a reflective surface for receiving solar radiation and an absorber positioned for receiving solar radiation reflected from the reflective surface, the reflector assembly comprising first and second opposed spaced apart panels, the second panel being positioned below the firat panel and each having opposed longitudinal edges extending along the length thereof and a width between the opposed longitudinal edges, and wherein the first panel has a concave profile transverse to its length for concentrating solar radiation towards the absorber, and spacer means for holding the first and second panels in a fixed, spaced apart relationship.
  • the upper and lower panels of the reflector assembly which are firmly held in a spaced apart relationship, with the upper panel having a concave profile, provide a reflector with considerably enhance-d structural rigidity in comparison to single sheet reflectors, and removes the need for a translucent cover above the reflector, thereby simplifying the deaign and removing the problem of condensation and the ingress of moisture in the space between the translucent cover and the reflector.
  • the spacer means comprises one or more rib members positioned between the first and second panels.
  • the spacer means comprises a plurality of rib members spaced apart in a direction along the length of the firat and second panels.
  • At least one rib member has an upper surface which at least partially defines the profile for directing and concentrating the solar radiation towards the absorber, and the first panel is firmly held against the profile forming upper surface of the rib member.
  • the upper surface of at l ⁇ ast one rib member is substantially continuous along the length of the rib member and the first panel is held against the upper surface over a major portion of the length of the rib member .
  • the second panel has a non-linear transverse profile between its opposed longitudinal edges.
  • the profile may for example be curved and/or convex.
  • the non-linear profile may increase this structural rigidity of the reflector assembly.
  • the rib member has a lower surface, and the second panel is held against the lower surface of the rib member.
  • the lower surface of the rib member may have a non-linear profile, for example a convex profile which may correspond to the profile of the second panel .
  • the rib has one or more apertures formed therein. This reduces the weight of the rib, saves material and reduces cost.
  • one or more ribs may be formed by stamping a sheet material.
  • the spacer means comprises at least one of (1) a web extending between the first and second panels and extending along one of the longitudinal edges, and (2) first and second webs extending between, the first and second panels and each extending along a respective opposed longitudinal edge of the first and second panels .
  • the upper surface of the first panel provides a reflective surface for reflecting and concentrating solar radiation towards the absorber.
  • the solar collector further comprises fastening means for fastening a reflective panol for reflecting solar radiation towards the absorber above and against the first panel.
  • the fastening means comprises at least one of (1) a longitudinal member extending in a direction along the length of the first: panel and adjacent an edge of the first panel for holding the reflector panel against the first panel, and (2) first and second longitudinal members each extending in a direction along the length of the first panel and being disposed adjacent a respective longitudinal edge of the first panel and each for holding the reflective panel against or towards the first panel .
  • the fastening means is adapted to releaaably fasten the reflective panel against the first panel to enable the reflective panel to be removed from the assembly. This allows the reflective surface to be renewed when required, e.g. once the performance of the present reflective surface falls below an acceptable level.
  • the solar collector further includes sealing means for sealing against ingress of the ambient between the reflective panel and the first panel .
  • each of the longitudinal edges of the reflector assembly define an air to solid interface, and the absorber is disposed at a position that is offset towards one of the edges from a central position between the edgee .
  • the profile of the reflective surface of the reflector is asymmetric between the opposed edges of the reflector assembly.
  • the aolar collector furcher comprises one or more arms extending from a position adjacent a longitudinal edge of the reflector assembly for supporting the absorber -
  • One or more of the arms may De positioned at or outside the longitudinal edge so that it does not overlap or encroach upon the reflective surface.
  • each arm extends from a position adjacent the rear longitudinal edge of the reflector assembly.
  • the or each arm curves outwardly away from the edge adjacent which the arm is attached. This arrangement assists in avoiding shadowing of the reflective surface by the absorber support.
  • the arms may be curved on one or both aides- This may assist in strengthening the arm or making the arm more rigid.
  • one or more arms have one or more apertures formed therethrough.
  • this reduces the weight of the arms, and saves material and cost.
  • the absorber is mounted to at least one arm in a manner which allows relative movement between the absorber and the arm in a longitudinal direction. This arrangement allows the absorber to expand and contract longitudinally due to variations in temperature independently of the arms, i.e. without causing longitudinal displacement of the arms.
  • the absorber comprises a housing, and the housing is mounted to the arm in a manner which allows relative movement between the arm and the housing in the longitudinal direction. This arrangement allows the housing to expand and contract longitudinally, for example, due to temperature variations independently of the arm.
  • the absorber comprises .an absorber member for absorbing aolar radiation and the absorber ia mounted to an least one arm in a manner which allows relative movement between the arm and the absorber member in the longitudinal direction.
  • this arrangement allows the absorber member to expand and contract longitudinally, for example, due to variations in temperature, independently of the arm.
  • two adjacent arms form the aides of an enclosure for enclosing at least one of an electrical cable, a connector and a fluid carrying conduit coupled to the absorber.
  • the enclosure further comprises at least one of (1) a panel extending between the adjacent arms, and (2) opposed first and second panels extending between the adjacent arms and forming the enclosure therebetween.
  • the absorber comprises a plurality of conduits for carrying fluid for absorbing heat from the absorber, and wherein the conduits are positioned in side-by-aide relationship across the width of the absorber for absorbing thermal energy across the width of the absorber.
  • this arrangement helps to reduce temperature gradients across the absorber surface-.
  • Maintaining a uniform temperature across the surface may be beneficial for the performance and efficiency of solar to electrical energy conversion devices which may be mounted on the absorber surface .
  • the conduits are collectively arranged to cause fluid to flow across a major part of trie width of the absorber.
  • the absorber comprises a plurality of conduits, for example, two or three or more, wherein the conduits are interconnected to provide a continuous fluid path.
  • a plurality of conduits may share a common inlet and/or a common fluid outlet.
  • the fluid inlet and fluid outlet may be positioned adjacent one another.
  • the fluid inlet and fluid outlet may be positioned between the same aupport arms and/or positioned adjacent the same arms.
  • the inlet and outlet are formed in the same conduit .
  • the absorber comprises a receiving surface for receiving solar radiation reflected from the reflector, the reflector being arranged to reflect solar radiation onto the receiving surface over a widuh of the receiving surface which decreases from a predetermined width as the angle of incidence of solar radiation on the reflector moves away from 90° to the longitudinal axia of the reflector, and wherein the receiving surface incl ⁇ dss means for converting solar radiation into electrical energy and has a width which is less than the predetermined width.
  • this arrangement assists in reducing the time, if any, over which Bolar radiation is incident on part of the energy converter surface but not on all of the surface of the converter. Avoiding the presence of dark regions on the surface of the solar to electrical energy converter may assist in preventing a deterioration in performance .
  • the absorber comprises .in absorbing surface for absorbing solar radiation, the absorbing surface having a width transverse to the longitudinal direction Qf the reflector and a solar energy to electrical energy conversion device having a width in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the reflector, the solar energy to electrical energy conversion device being disposed on the absorbing surface, and wherein the width of the device ia less than that of the absorbing surface.
  • the absorber comprises a plurality of spaced apart solar radiation to electrical energy conversion devices and a plurality of translucent panels spaced from and positioned above the solar radiation to electrical energy conversion devices, and wherein the; junction between the two adjacent panels is positioned within the gap between two adjacent solar radiation to electrical energy conversion devices.
  • the solar collector further includes mounting means for rotatably mounting the soLac collector about a longitudinal axis. This arrangement allows the position of the reflector to vary as the height of the ⁇ un changes over a daily period.
  • the solar collector further comprises mounting means for rotatably mounting the solar collector about an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, for example about a substantially vertical axis. This arrangement allows the position or the solar collector to vary as the sun moves from east to west (azimuthal variation) , so that the direction of solar rays incident on the solar collector can be maintained orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the reflector as the sun changes position over a daily period.
  • the solar collector may be mounted on a one axis tiling system or a two axis tilting and rotating system.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective front and right end view of a solar collector and mounting system, according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the solar collector shown in Figure l;
  • Figure 3 shows a perspective view of part of a solar collector according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a solar collector from the rear thereof according to an embodiment of the present invention, with fluid conduits housed between two support arms ;
  • Figure 5 shows a partial perspective cut-away view of an absorber according to an embodiment of the present invention,-
  • Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an absorber according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 7 shows a fluid conduit arrangement £or an absorber according no an embodiment of the present invention,-
  • Figure 8A shows a cross-sectional view through an absorber according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a narrow reflected light pattern
  • Figure 8B shows a cross-sectional view through the absorber of Figure 8A with a wider reflected light patte-rn incident thereon;
  • Figure SC shows a plan view of the absorber shown in Figures 8A and 8B;
  • Figure 8D shows a front view of the absorber £hown in Figure 8C;
  • Figure 9 shows an example of the curvature of a solar collector and relative position of an absorber according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 10 shows an array of solar collectors each with a ground mounting and anchoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 11 shows an array of solar collectors mounted on a ground anchored two axis cracking system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 12 shows an array of solar collectors on a roof mounted two axis tracking system according to an embodiment of the present invention,- and
  • Figure 13 shows a graph of the available solar energy from various tracking configurations ao a function of time .
  • a solar collector 1 comprises a reflector assembly 3 for supporting a reflective surface 5 for receiving solar radiation 7, and an absorber 9 positioned for receiving solar radiation reflected from the reflective surface 5,
  • the reflector assembly 3 has front and rear longitudinal edges 11, 13 and a first panel 15 extending along the reflector assembly 3 and having a concave profile transverse to its length for concentrating the solar radiation towards the absorber 9 as for example indicated by the solar ray lines 17.
  • the absorber is positioned asymmetrically above the reflective surface, i.e. at a position which is offset from a central position between the longitudinal edges of the reflector assembly which define a solid to air interface.
  • the absorber 9 is positioned substantially directly above the rear edge 13 when the reflector is oriented to receive vertically incident solar rays 7.
  • the concave profile of the reflector is shaped to concentrate and direct the solar radiation towards the rear edge of the reflector assembly and onto the absorber.
  • the profile of the reflective surface is relatively shallow, reducing the ability of the reflector surface to accumulate moisture, water, ice and snow.
  • the rear edge in the orientation of the reflector shown in Figure 2 is the lowest point of the reflector surface allowing water and other elements to readily drain from the surface, over the rear edge.
  • the reflector assembly further comprises a second panel 19 positioned below the first panel 15, and the panels 15, 19 are held in a spacad apart relationship by means of one or more spacer members.
  • the spacer members comprise transverse rib members 21 which are spaced apart in a direction along the length of the reflector assembly, as for example shown in Figure 3, and positioned between the first and second panels 15, 19.
  • Each rib has an upper surface 23 which supports the first panel 15 and defines the curved profile for reflecting and concentrating solar radiation towards the absorber 9.
  • the panel is securely held against and fastened to the upper surface of the rib 21 by any suitable means, for example adhesive.
  • the rib has a lower surface 25 for supporting the second panel 19, and which, in this embodiment , has a convex profile which corresponds to the profile of the lower panel 19.
  • the lower panel 19 is firmly held against: the lower surface 25 of the rib 21 and securely fastened thereto by any suitable means, such as adhesive.
  • the ribs 21 may be formed from sheet material and cut from the sheet material by stamping.
  • the sheet material may comprise a metal such as aluminum, a plastic or polymeric material, a composite material, a laminate, or a combination of any of these.
  • the upper and/or lower edges of the rib may include a flange 24, 26 ( Figure 3) to increase the support/contact area between the rib and the respective
  • the flamge may be formed by bending a portion of the sheet.
  • the upper surface 23 of i.h « rib 21 is continuous and the first panel is supported against the continuous upper surface of the rib.
  • the upper surface of the rxb may be discontinuous and the panel may be supported by the ric .at spaced intervals.
  • the lower surface 25 of the rib is continuous and the lower panel 19 is held against the continuous lower surface.
  • the lower surface of the rib may be discontinuous and the second panel held at spaced intervals against the rib .
  • the rib has a plurality of apertures 27 formed therethrough to reduce weight and material used.
  • the reflector assembly 3 further includes front and rear edge members 29, 31 which extend longitudinally along the front and rear edges between upper and lower portions 33, 35 of the reflector assembly.
  • the longitudinal front and rear edge members 29, 31 may each comprise discrete members and may conveniently be formed as an extrusion or from sheet material.
  • one or both of the longitudinal edge members may comprise an integral part of one or both of the upper and lower panels 15, 19.
  • One or both ends of the rib may include a flange 30, 32 ( Figures 3 and 4) to increase the support/contact area between the rib and the respective longitudinal edge member 29, 31. If the rib is formed of a sheet material, the or each flange may be formed by bending a portion of the sheet .
  • the combination of the first and second panels and longitudinal front and rear edge members may be arranged to provide an enclosed apace therebetween, which may be sealed either fully or partially by any suitable means to prevent the ingress of moisture and other atmospheric elements.
  • the reflector assembly thus formed effectively constitutes a. monocoque structure with substantially increased rigidity and stiffness in both torsion about the longitudinal axis of the assembly and normal to the reflector surface, in comparison to other structures formed of a single upper reflective panel.
  • the lower panel 19 may be flat, providing the lower panel with a non- linear profile, such as a convex profile, as for example, shown in Figures 1 and 2, assists in increasing the rigidity and stiffness of the reflector assembly for both torsion and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
  • the longitudinal edge members 29, 31 also assist in increasing the rigidity and stiffness for both torsion about the longitudinal axis and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
  • the rib members assist in stiffening the re elector assembly in torsion, and in a direction normal to the reflector surface, and assist m preserving the curvature of the upper panel 15.
  • the rib members 21 may be omitted altogether and the spacer members for holding the first and second panels in a fixed spaced apart relationship may comprise the longitudinal edge members 29, 31.
  • one or more rib members may be provided which is fastened against only one of the panels 15, 19 but which does not extend fully across the gap between the two panels.
  • the upper surface 16 of the first panel 15 may provide the reflective surface for reflecting solar radiation towards the absorber 9.
  • the reflective surface may be provided by a separate panel which ia .supported on the first panel 15.
  • Fastening means may be provided for releasably fastening the separate reflective panel above the firsc panel.
  • the fastening system comprises a fastening member 39 positioned adjacent the rear edge 31 of the reflector assembly which provides a receptacle or gap above the first panel 15 for receiving an edge of the separate reflector panel 40.
  • the fastening system further comprises a releasable clip or clamping member 43 having a clamping portion 45 for placing over the opposite longitudinal edge of the separate reflective panel 40 and holding the longitudinal edge against or towards the first panel 15.
  • the clamping member 43 may include a releauable fastener 47 which engages a complementary fastener 49 of the reflector assembly, A seal 51, 53 may be provided for sealing against the ingress of moisture between the first panel 15 and the separate reflective panel 40 along the opposed longitudinal edges of the reflector.
  • the clamping members 39, 43 may extend continuously along the lengch of the reflector assembly or may comprise discrete members which are spaced apart along the reflector assembly. The clamping members may conveniently be formed by extrusion.
  • the reflective panel may be preformed with a transverse curvature before being mounted to the reflector assembly, and in one embodiment, the transverse curvature may be tighter than the required curvature to assist in urging portions of the reflector panel between its opposed longitudinal edge ⁇ against ch. ⁇ first panel 15.
  • the releasable panel fastener allows reflector panels to be replaced, as required when the performance of the reflector surface deteriorates to an unacceptable level.
  • the fastener 39 may be positioned along the front edge, and the fastener 43 may be positioned along the rear edge.
  • any other form of releasable fastening system may be used to secure a separate panel to the reflector assembly or provision ol: a fastener may be omitted altogether.
  • the absorber 9 comprises a longitudinal member which extends along the length of the reflector assembly and which is supported above the reflector assembly by a plurality of spaced apart support arms or stanchions E.7.
  • the support arma each have upper and lower ends 59, 61 with the absorber 9 being coupled to the upper end and the lower end 61 being connected to or at a position adjacent the rear edge 31 of the reflector assembly.
  • Mounting the support arms at ox outside a longitudinal edge of the reflector prevents the absorber support interfering with the path of solar raya 17 between the reflector surface and the absorber, and allows the whole dimension between opposed edges of the reflector assembly to be used to reflect solar energy to the absorber. This allows che distance between opposed edges of the reflector assembly to be reduced in comparison to other configurations in which che support structure upstands from a position intermediate between the longitudinal edges of the reflector, allowing the reflector assembly to be more compact .
  • each arm 57 has an inside edge 63 which curves outwardly, away from the edge 31 of the reflector assembly to assist in ensuring that no part of the arm interferes with che path of the solar radiation reflected from the reflector surface.
  • the outer edge 55 of each arm is also curved in a similar manner to the inside edge S3.
  • the curved inside and/or outside edges of each arm may assist in strengthening the arm and increasing its rigidity or stiffness.
  • Each arm comprises a plurality of apertures 67 formed therethrough to reduce wind loading on the arm, to reduce weight and save material.
  • Each arm may be formed from aheet material and may be formed by stamping. The material may comprise a metal, plastic or other polymeric material, a composite material, a laminate or any combination of these.
  • Each arm may include a flange 69, 71 along its inside and/or outside edge at an angle to the plane of the arm to increase its strength and rigidity, for example, in a direction transverse to the plane of the arm.
  • the upper and/or lower ends 59, 61 of the arm may include a flange 73, 74 extending at an angle to the plane of the arm, for example at substantially 90° thereto and conveniently provides a mounting point and attachment surface for attaching the absorber to the arm and the arm to the reflector assembly.
  • the absorber 9 comprises a longitudinal absorber member 75 having a front, radiation absorbing surface 77 and a plurality of conduits 77, 79, 81 positioned behind and in thermal communication with the solar absorbing surface 77.
  • the absorber member 75 is mounted within an absorber housing 83 which is mounted on and coupled to the end of each arm or stanchion 57.
  • the housing includes opposed side members 85, 87 which extend forward of the front surface 77 of ths absorber member 75 and whose opposed ends 89, 91 define an aperture S3 therebetween for receiving solar radiation reflected from the reflector.
  • the aperture 93 thus formed comprises a longitudinal slot which extends along the length of the absorber and has a width which is leas than this width of the absorber member 75.
  • the opposed side members 85, 87 may include a reflective internal surface 95, 97 for reflecting solar radiation that may be reflected from the absorber member 75 back to the absorber member, thereby increasing the efficiency of the absorber.
  • the reflective surfaces 95, 97 taper inwardly towards the aperture 93 and are angled relative to the absorber froriC surface 77.
  • the absorber housing S3 may be connected to one or more support arms in a manner which prevents relative movement between the housing and the arm in the z-direct: ion, and also in the x and y directions.
  • the absorber housing 83 may be coupled to one or more other arms 57 in a manner which allows relative movement between the arm and the housing in the longitudinal (i.e. z) direction with movement restricted in the x and y directions. This arrangement may be advantageous in allowing the housing 83 to expand longitudinally with increasing temperature without causing corresponding longitudinal displacement of the arms.
  • the coupling may comprise any suitable arrangement, for example, the coupling may include one or more protrusions 94 ( Figure 6) , extending from the housing (or arm) and one or more receptacles 9 ⁇ in the arm (or housing) for accommodating the protrusion, and which allows the protrusion to slide relative to the receptacles in the longitudinal direction but which restricts movement in the x and y directions.
  • the coupling may include one or more protrusions 94 ( Figure 6) , extending from the housing (or arm) and one or more receptacles 9 ⁇ in the arm (or housing) for accommodating the protrusion, and which allows the protrusion to slide relative to the receptacles in the longitudinal direction but which restricts movement in the x and y directions.
  • the absorber member 75 is; mounted to the housing 83 in a manner which allows the absorber member to move relative to the housing in the! longitudinal direction to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the absorber member 75 relative to the housing and vice versa.
  • the mounting may comprise a slidable mounting, in which an «:dge or other portion 99 of the absorber member 75 is received within a longitudinally extending groove 101 of the housing 83, or vice versa,
  • any other form of mounting may be used which allows relative movement between the housing and absorber member 75, examples of which may include wheels or ball bearings or other coupling arrangements .
  • fluid lines 107, 109 are provided for carrying heat transfer fluid to and from the absorber, respectively. Both fluid lines may be connected to the absorber at positions which are proximate one another as shown for example in Figure 5. The junctions or points of connection between the absorber and both fluid lines may both be positioned between the same two support arms 57A, 57B as for example shown in Figure 5. An enclosure ill may be formed between the adjacent support: arms 57A, 57B for enclosing the fluid lines 107, 109 and optionally electrical cable (s) for solar ⁇ ell(s).
  • the enclosure may be formed at least partially by the adj acent support arms 57A, 57B and by a rear and/or front pane L member 113, 115 extending between the arms.
  • the enclosure may include thermal insulation for thermally insulating one or both fluid lines.
  • the absorber housing 8:3 may be attached to one or both the support arms 57A, 57B in a manner which prevents relative longitudinal movement between the support arms and the housing for example by one or more bolts 116.
  • One or more other arms may be connected to the housing to allow relative longitudinal movement: therebetween.
  • the absorber member 75 comprises three longitudinally extending conduits 77, 79, 81 positioned side-by-side across th «; width 82 of the absorber member.
  • the middle conduit 79 has a fluid inlet 121 and a fluid outlet 123 formed therein.
  • An end cap 125 is provided for connecting the end of the middle conduit 79 to the ends of each of the outer conduits 77, 81.
  • the ingress fluid supply line 107 is coupled to the fluid inlet 121 and the egress fluid line 109 is coupled to the fluid outlet 123.
  • a common connector block 127 may be: used to connect both fluid lines 107, 109 to the respective- inlet and outlet ports 121, 123, or a separate coupling may be provided for each fluid line.
  • fluid from the ingress line 107 is introduced into the middle conduit 79 via the fluid inlet 121 and is caused, by means of a flew blocker 126 between the inlet and outlet ports 121, 123 to f low r.nws rrin nnp cap 125 directs the fluid back along the outer conduits 77, 81 towards the opposite end.
  • the opposite end includes an end cap which is similar to end cap 125 which directs the fluid flows from Che outer conduits 77, 81 through the middle conduit 79 cowards the end 129.
  • the fluid leaves the middle conduit 79 through the outlet port 123 to the fluid egress line 109.
  • fluid inlet and outlet porta are formed in the middle conduit, in other embodiments, the inlet and outlet ports may both be formed in one of the other conduits. In other embodiments, one or more conduits may each have a fluid inlet and/or a fluid outlet.
  • the conduits may be arranged so that the flow of heat transfer fluid therethrough provides a relatively uniform temperature across the width of the absorber.
  • this may assist in optimizing the performance of solar energy to electrical converters mounted on the absorber which may be adversely affected by too high a temperature or temperature gradients.
  • FIGS SA to 8D show various views of an absorber according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the absorber 201 comprises a longitudinally extending member 203 having a generally planar front absorbing surface 205 and having a plurality of solar to electrical converters 207, 209 mounted thereon and which are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, z.
  • a plurality of translucent plates or panels 211, 213 are positioned above the converters and spaced apart therefrom to provide a gap 215 therebetween to reduce thermal loss from the absorber c ⁇ iused by convection or conduction of heat that may otherwise result from a free airflow adjacent the absorber surface.
  • the translucent plates 211, 213 have opposed ends 215, 217 and opposed ends of adjacent plates are positioned adjacent one another and may abut each other as for example shown in Figures SC and SD.
  • the adjacent ends are positioned within the gap 219 between adjacent solar converters so that any reduced transmissivity caused by the ends do not affect propagation of solar radiation to the solar converters.
  • a plurality of conduits 221, 223, 225 extend longitudinally along the absorber and are positioned side by side and in thermal communication with the front surface of the absorber member 203.
  • the conduits may be arranged to provide a relatively uniform temperature distribution across the width of the absorber to avoid local hot spots or temperature spikes which might adversely affect the performance of the solar converters.
  • the longitudinal member and conduit may be formed separately or integrally, for example by an extrusion process.
  • the solar collector may be arranged so that the angle between the incident solar rays and the longitudinal axis of the reflector varies over a daily period as the sun moves through the sky.
  • the sun's rays may be at 90° to the longitudinal axis at noon and at 45° to the longitudinal axis in che morning and evening, as for example shown in Figure 8D .
  • the transverse curvature of the reflector is less than at noon, in which case the focal position moves away from the reflector towards the absorber causing the width of the reflected light pattern at the absorber to be less than the width when the solar radiation is normal to the longitudinal axis, at noon for example, as shown in Figures 8A and 8B.
  • the solar to electric ensr ⁇ gy conversion device which may for example comprise an array of solar cells is arranged so that all of the cells capcure light, even when the sun is not normal to the absorber face, such as in the morning and the evening. Thia prevents some solar to electric energy conversion devices being positioned in the "dark", while others are still illuminated, which may deteriorate the performance of the solar to electric conversion system.
  • the solar collector ia arranged such that when the reflected light pattern expands from the photoelectric acceptance width 227, due to changes in the angle of the sun from normal to the absorber surface (with a one axis tracking system) , the thermal acceptance width 229 ia wide enough to receive the expanded portion of the reflected light pattern.
  • the absorber optical acceptance surface extends beyond the photoelectric acceptance width on one or both sides thereof.
  • the thermal acceptance width is wide enough so as not to lose any solar radiation collected by the reflector when the reflected light pattern extends beyond the photoelectric acceptance width.
  • Figure 9 shows a non-limiting example of a transverse profile of the reflective surface of the reflector according to an embodiment of the present invention and the geometric placement of a non- limiting example of an absorber relative to the reflective suri:ac:e, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 9 of the width, w a , of the aperture 93 of the absorber 5 and the distance d 3 between the absorber surface 205 and bhe aperture 93 are not critical and c:ari be varied, a ⁇ required. It is to be noted that the accuracy of each constant may be to the first decimal place or any one or more decimal places thereafter.
  • reflector may have any other suitable curvature and geometrical configuration with the abaorber.
  • Embodiments of the solar collector may be mounted on either a one or two axis tracking system to change the position of the solar collector with movement of the ti:ur ⁇ .
  • a one axis tracking system generally rotates the solar collector about an axis extending longitudinally of the reflector, e.g. in the vertical plane and a two axis tracking system additionally tracka in the azimuthal direction, i.e. rotates the solar collector in the horizontal plane.
  • the sol.ar collector 1 is mounted on a one-axis tracking system.
  • the tracking system comprises a surface mounting system which comprises structural sections 10 which may be interconnected using any suitable technique, including, for example, connections that do not require welding or metal fusing .
  • the structural sections may be connected together using clamps, or other mechanical means, connectors or couplers.
  • the mounting system shown in Figure 1 may be suitable for supporting the solar collector on a surface such as a building roof 12 with limited point load support capability.
  • one or more of the structural sections may comprise a tubular section.
  • the tubular sections 10 may have any desired cross- sectional geometry such as circular or square or rectangular.
  • the mounting system may include one or more pads 14 having an area which is greater than that of t.hss structural sections 10, and for example which may serve to spread the load to more uniformly distribute weight and wind load to the support structure below, which may comprisie the membrane of a building roof.
  • the mounting system includes a plurality of spaced apart upright: members 16 which rotacably support the solar collector about a longitudinal pivotal axis 18.
  • An actuator arm 20 is: coupled between the mounting system (e.g. upright member 16, or other part of the mounting system) and a point on the collector displaced from the pivotal axis 18, In this. embodiment:, the actuator arm ia pivotally connected adjacent a front edge 11 of the reflector assembly 3. In operation, the actuator arm rotates the solar collector about the longitudinal axis 18 to maintain the direction of the reflected solar radiation on the absorber surface with movement of the sun.
  • an embodiment of a ground mounting system 301 for mounting a solar collector comprises an anchor post 302 having opposed ends, one end of which iis for insertion into the ground to form a support for pivotiil ' Ly mounting the solar collector thereon, and also may provide a support for an actuator 303 for tiling the solar collector.
  • the mounting system further includes a lateral force support assembly 305 coupled to the post and capable of being positioned above the lower «nd of the post to provide an anchor for resisting lateral force.
  • the lateral force support assembly 305 comprises one or more flanges, vane ⁇ or other structure extending transversely away from the longitudinal axisj of the post for engaging the ground material, for example positioned below, e.g. just below the ground surface _iO7 to reduce or prevent lateral motion of the post.
  • the support assembly 305 may be connected to the post in such a wciy that the connection prevents relative vertical motion between the support assembly 305 and the post.
  • the post may be provided with an auger or similar device 309 at the lower end thereof and which may be rigidly affixed to the anchor post.
  • the anger tip may have a relatively low pitch.
  • the anchor post may be augured into the ground 311 and/or a hole dug and the post assembly buried and back filled.
  • the anchor post may be formed of any suitable material and may have any suitable cross-sectional geometry.
  • the psac 302 comprises solid wood and has a square or round struct ⁇ .al section which may be solid or hollow.
  • the post may comprise a tubular construction formed of .any suitable material such as a metal, e.g. aluminum or sceel or other similar structural material.
  • a plurality of solar collectors may be arranged together in an array either back to back, as shown in Figure 10 and/or end to end, and each may be mounted m a similar manner.
  • the solar collectors may be similar to the solar collector described above, for example with reference to any one or more of Figures 1 to 9.
  • a mounting system 401 is provided for mounting a plurality of collectors 403 in .1 stacked angled array.
  • the mounting system may be arranged such that the collectors are stacked at an angle approximately equal to the latitude location on the p La ⁇ et and track the sun vertically in the sky and m addition also track azimuth. This may have the effect of capturing up to 35% more direct solar radiation than an east -west axii; single axis tracking system, as for example shown in th(. graph of Figure 13.
  • the stacked angular mounting system may comprise a rotary support 411 for enabling the mounting system 4Ul to rotate about the vertical axis 407 (i.e. the azimuth axis shown in the figure) .
  • the support also enables one; or more reflector ⁇ of the solar collectors to rotate to different angles of inclination, e.g. about: the longitudinal axis 409.
  • the azimuth rotation system 411 comprises a windlass winch 414, cable 415, an extrusion track, support and guide wheels, a motor 417 and a gear box 419.
  • Other embodiments may comprise any otlnar suitable rotation system.
  • the azimuth angle is si ⁇ noed by a sensor, e.g. by an electric compass or other means, and fed back to a system controller.
  • the azimuth angle is fed back to a system controller via a rotary position inducer
  • the mounting system includes a roller channel track which may be suitably secured to a lower support .
  • the lower support may for example comprise a concrete or other structural slab, or any other support substrate .
  • the rolled channel track is attached to one or more posts for a ground mounted system, for example as shown in Figure 11.
  • the ground mounting posts may include any one or more features of the anchoring posts described above.
  • one or more clamps 421 may be provided to join Support sections 423 (e.g. round or rectangular or square hollow tubes) , to form the support structure for the inclined collectors, as for example shown in Figure 11.
  • Support sections 423 e.g. round or rectangular or square hollow tubes
  • a bracket 425 may be provided and may serve both to provide ths pivot support and actuator attachment means, and the bracket may be clamped or otherwise connected to the structural support sections 423 (e.g. tubes).
  • a stamped or molded bracket may allow the actuator to be mounted beside rather than through the structural member.
  • a solar collector having a trough-like reflector for focusing solar radiation on a receiving absorber wh.ich is asymmetrically positioned above the collector over at least the length of the reflector, the reflector forming a monocoque structure to stiffen the structure in torsion and to strengthen the structure in directions normal and transverse to the reflector surface.
  • the receiving absorber extends beyond one or both ends of the reflector to absorb solar radiation when for example the sun's rays are not orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the reflector.
  • the reflector structure may comprise at leasit two panels.
  • the structure comprises; first and second opposed panels, which are spaced apart in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the collector to form a space therebetween which extends the* longitudinal axis.
  • the panels include one or more transverse stiffening members.
  • the stiffening r.bs may be firmly affixed to the opposed panels so as to form a monocoque structure.
  • One or more stiffening ribs may be: formed of stamped metal, molded metal plastic, and may control the shape of the reflector surface.
  • the reflective surface may be provided by the upper panel facing the absorber.
  • the reflector may be clamped or otherwise rigidly held against the upper panel facing the absorber so as to assume substantially the exact curve specified by the upper panel.
  • longitudinal extrusion** form the front and rear of the monocoque structure and are rigidly anchored to the opposed upper and lower panels and/or to the stiffening ribs.
  • the solar collector includes a reflective surface that can easily be replaced in longitudinal sections by removing clamping extrusions and reaffixed using bolts, screws or captive features.
  • the surface captivation system includes removable extrusions to provide a transverse clamping force to force the reflective surface to assume: the shape of the top curve generating sheet which may be rigidly attached to transverse stiffening ribs.
  • flexible seals are provided to assist in fractionally, removably clamping the reflective surface in place and assist in preventing moisture from rain or imow to enter the space between the curved generating sheet and the reflector.
  • the absorber is fixed rigidly in space in the x and y directions by support arms or stanchions and is enclosed by a housing, with a relatively narrow aperture facing the reflective surface;. The housing may be permitted to move in the longitudinal (i.e. a direction) .
  • the support arms or stanchions may be stamped or formed with perforations to allow wind to pa ⁇ .s therethrough.
  • two support arms or stanchions may be kept front and rear with light gauge; .sheet metal, for example to provide a guide volume for electrical and/or heat transfer fluid conduit (a) and/or respective connections.
  • the absorber enclosure is rigidly fixed in the x and y directions to one or more support arms or stanchions, but free to move longitudinally in the z direction by way of wheels, bearings, bushings or other sliding means, but fixed in the 2 direction at least one of the fluid inlet and outlet.
  • Thermal insulation may be provided surrounding some or all surfaces of the absorber except the optical acceptance surface.
  • the optical acceptance surface may be fitted with solar cells, thermionic diodes, electrical generation polymers or other photoelectric devices that generate electricity.
  • the convective and conductive heat transfer from the optical acceptance surface may be minimized by translucent material placed over the surface such as low ion glass, translucent insulation, with an air gap between the material and optical acceptance surface or optionally evacuating the gap to increase the thermal insulation effect.
  • longitudinal joints in the translucent material coincide with gaps or joints between photoelectric devices so that the joint shadow does not degrade the performance of the photoelectric device.
  • the solar collector absorber includes a fluid path which allows a substantially colocated fluid entrance and exit from the absorber along the longitudinal direction of the absorber.
  • the fluid path substancially covers the optical acceptance area to reduce the temperature gradient across one or more photoelectric devices mounted thereon.
  • the solar collector includes photoelectric cells positioned on the absorber optical acceptance surface such that with a one-axis tracking system, the illuminated portion of the cells is always covered, even when the sun is not normal to tha absoroer face, such ae morning and evening,
  • the thermal acceptance width is wide enough ao as not to lose any solar radiation collected by the reflector.

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Abstract

Un capteur solaire comprend un réflecteur de type bac possédant des bords longitudinaux avant et arrière opposés, chacun définissant une interface air/solide et, un absorbeur destiné à recevoir le rayonnement solaire en provenance du réflecteur, cet absorbeur étant placé à un emplacement qui est décalé vers le bord avant ou arrière à partir d'une position centrale entre les bord du réflecteur. Le réflecteur comprend un premier et un second panneau espacés et opposés, le premier panneau possédant un profil concave transversal à sa longueur destiné à concentrer le rayonnement solaire vers l'absorbeur décalé et, un dispositif entretoise permettant de maintenir le premier et le second panneau en relation fixe, espacée afin de former une structure monocoque.
PCT/CA2007/000505 2006-03-28 2007-03-28 Capteur solaire Ceased WO2007109900A1 (fr)

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US60/786,362 2006-03-28

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WO2010042311A1 (fr) * 2008-10-08 2010-04-15 Guardian Industries Corp. Éléments de renfort pour des réflecteurs utilisés dans un appareil de concentration d'énergie solaire et leur procédé de fabrication
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WO2011149589A1 (fr) * 2010-05-24 2011-12-01 Cogenra Solar, Inc. Capteur solaire à concentration
WO2012033512A1 (fr) * 2010-08-16 2012-03-15 Magna International Inc. Système concentrateur solaire intégré
US8303124B2 (en) 2006-03-23 2012-11-06 Guardian Industries Corp. Parabolic trough or dish reflector for use in concentrating solar power apparatus and method of making same
US8455755B2 (en) 2009-12-07 2013-06-04 Electrotherm Concentrated photovoltaic and thermal solar energy collector
EP2778563A1 (fr) * 2013-03-12 2014-09-17 Termopower S.L. Concentrateur solaire avec système de focalisation
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US9270225B2 (en) 2013-01-14 2016-02-23 Sunpower Corporation Concentrating solar energy collector
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GR1009246B (el) * 2016-11-02 2018-03-12 Αλεξανδρος Χρηστου Παπαδοπουλος Ηλιακο συγκεντρωτικο συστημα 3 ηλιων για την ταυτοχρονη παραγωγη ηλεκτρικης, κλιματιστικης και θερμικης ενεργειας για κτιρια
WO2022076593A1 (fr) * 2020-10-06 2022-04-14 The Regents Of The University Of California Capteur solaire sans ombrage asymétrique par réflexion
US11595000B2 (en) 2012-11-08 2023-02-28 Maxeon Solar Pte. Ltd. High efficiency configuration for solar cell string

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US8303124B2 (en) 2006-03-23 2012-11-06 Guardian Industries Corp. Parabolic trough or dish reflector for use in concentrating solar power apparatus and method of making same
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WO2014140142A1 (fr) * 2013-03-12 2014-09-18 Termopower. S.L Concentrateur solaire muni d'un système focal
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WO2018083506A1 (fr) 2016-11-02 2018-05-11 Alexandros Papadopoulos Système solaire à concentration de 3 soleils pour la production simultanée d'énergie électrique, de refroidissement et thermique pour bâtiments
WO2022076593A1 (fr) * 2020-10-06 2022-04-14 The Regents Of The University Of California Capteur solaire sans ombrage asymétrique par réflexion

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